Confirmed: Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to finally make its way into the next Proton model - Is it the X70 facelift?
CY Foong · Feb 2, 2024 02:35 PM
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2024 might finally be the year everyone stops asking Proton when will Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (AA/CP) support be available. At the recent Proton S70 media drive, Proton revealed that the car connectivity feature would be making its P1 debut on its next model which is planned to be launched this year.
Of course, the carmaker was mum in revealing what this upcoming model is but it could likely be the Proton X70 facelift which was spotted in camouflage on our roads. The X70 was introduced back in 2018 and with the launch of newer rivals like the Toyota Corolla Cross and the all-new Honda CR-V, the ageing X70 is slipping in sales.
S70 infotainment head unit shown
“We’re still in the middle of developing together with our supplier ACO Tech and the (AA/CP) feature will be introduced in our next model which is coming soon,” said Proton Vehicle Program Executive, Haizam Ghazali.
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are absent in Proton’s entire lineup and its non-availability has become a persistent question at every Proton model launch. Some owners have resorted to using an aftermarket infotainment unit or dug deep into the software of the existing unit to enable the car connectivity features.
“I’m aware that some of the owners are taking measures to add CP/AA onto the infotainment but doing so could void the car’s warranty,” Proton Deputy CEO, Roslan Abdullah explained during the S70 media drive Q&A session.
Outgoing X70 pre-facelift shown
However, he acknowledged that some of the existing hardware of some Proton models does support AA/CP which would require a software update. Models in which the infotainment unit does not support AA/CP would require a hardware upgrade instead.
“Certain models’ hardware cannot be upgraded even if the software can be updated," Roslan revealed. The chips cannot carry AA/CP because the hardware is developed in China which used their own connectivity feature.”
He also said that Proton is looking into the possibility of offering these software and hardware upgrades to support AA/CP for older Proton models.
Traded advertising for a career that fits his passion for cars. Enjoys spotting cars during his free time and has a soft spot for Japanese Kei cars but drives a thirsty manual sedan.
